Religion has played a significant role in the history of Black people, both in Africa and in the African diaspora. In Africa, diverse indigenous belief systems have long existed, with some regions adopting Christianity and Islam through interactions with European and Arab traders and missionaries.

During the transatlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans brought their religious beliefs with them to the Americas. Christian missionaries often attempted to convert enslaved people, which led to the development of unique syncretic religious practices blending African traditional beliefs with Christianity. This resulted in the emergence of African American spiritual practices such as the Ring Shout, the use of music and dance in worship, and the development of denominations such as the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Baptist Church.

In the 20th century, the Civil Rights Movement drew heavily on Christian beliefs and principles of nonviolent resistance, with leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X using religious rhetoric to mobilize and inspire their followers.

Today, religion continues to be an important aspect of Black culture and identity, with a diverse range of beliefs and practices within the Black community, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and various African diasporic religions such as Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé. Religion has provided a source of strength, resilience, community, and cultural expression for Black people throughout history.